'Adiwiraku' comparable with Hollywood superhero flicks

A scene from the feature film, “Adiwiraku” starring Sangeeta Krishnasamy.

March 18, 2017 @ 12:14pm

I AM often cynical when it comes films that claim to portray multiracial stories and issues, especially movies produced locally. However, I am proud to say that Adiwiraku has changed my perspective to some extent.

Firstly, let me say that this film is not without its weaknesses. The story is simple, without great twists. It is inspired by true events, but the producers could have steeped it more in reality.

Also, the voiceover narration could have been more informal and expressive to reflect the protagonist’s mood in some scenes. But, this could also have been intentional to give a sense of someone recalling events. But most cinemagoers will not look into these aspects too much.

Now to the “superpowers” that this film holds. The story is beautiful. It makes us believe in this country, her people and all the wonders that can be achieved if we unite. And, this is done not by sidestepping stark realities, but by focusing on the solutions.

The main character was played superbly by Sangeeta Krishnasamy. I was taken by surprise with the splendid “metre” shown by her as most of our local actors tend to be “wooden” or overact. A special mention as well to all the kids and teenagers in the movie. It must not have been easy to understand their roles and, at the same time, show their individuality and express the dialogue, which may not be in their first language, convincingly.

Not forgetting the captain of the ship, Eric Ong, who would have needed to believe the story and endure challenges to make this film because this was clearly not made with the aim of breaking box office records, but rather connect to hearts and put across a message. Hats off to the team. If this is a sample of your output, then more great things will come.

Finally, to the audience and cinema fans, this is unlike other superhero movies with state-of- the-art computer-generated imagery, spectacular stunts or big stars. But, what it does share with those movies is that this film will move you. Unfortunately, this film will not have a sequel bankrolled by a major studio, nor will there be similar quality local movies like this without our support.